Kay Duncan 

Artist, Singer/Songwriter, Poet

Thank you for visiting my website.

​I am an interdisciplinary artist based in Christchurch New Zealand, making my art works and writing songs in my home based studios, where I also run art classes. I run Botanical Watercolour painting workshops in The Kiosk in The Christchurch Botanical Gardens, which are hosted by The Canterbury Horticultural Society. 

Originally from the Naval port Island city of Portsmouth in England, I studied product design in the UK, and was interested in Sculpture.

After I had emigrated to New Zealand in 1984, I was greatly inspired by the New Zealand landscape and clarity of light and began painting.

Initially, I focused on painting watercolours. Later on I taught life drawing and watercolour painting in a series of workshops. At this time I also co-owned and operated a local gallery/ framing business.

I have exhibited my work locally and sold a series of my watercolour prints through out NZ, and I continue to paint, and teach art from my home based studio.

Deep connections with nature, the unique New Zealand landscape and the human relationship with these, is where I seek inspiration for all my creative work.

I have been singing all my life and began performing and writing songs in the UK when I was 11 years old, and enjoyed singing in local folk clubs there. I have spent many years working with children in the community and in schools using my music and art. 

My style is a mix of soul, folk, blues and jazz.  I like to keep it real and authentic, writing predominately from my own experiences and observations. Themes reflect the social issues of our times. 

I was the lead singer in the Christchurch jazz band “The Flying Dixies” and I also work in collaboration with my composer and pianist husband Guy Hobson. I perform frequently at local venues, events and private functions solo, and as a duo with Guy. 

My band -'The Kay Duncan Band' perform all originals at local venues and festivals, including Summertimes events in The Christchurch Botanic gardens and at The Jazz & Blues Festival in Oamaru

My debut album, 'Interstellar Refugee' was recorded entirely in my home based studio, and I am presently recording a blues genre album & 2 other multi genre albums.

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